Cardiff 0 - Burnley 0: Missed chance for Bluebirds

CARDIFF fired another volley of blanks as Burnley picked up their first away draw of the season yesterday.

Having lost their way in front of goal in recent weeks, the Bluebirds spurned another golden opportunity to ease back into the top six.

Portsmouth loanee Liam Lawrence had their best chance 19 minutes from time but failed to connect with Ben Turner’s header.

For Burnley, it might have been all three points. They had the best chance of the game and a legitimate shout for a first-half penalty. After Martin Paterson’s smart strike had been parried by home goalkeeper David Marshall, his second effort appeared to strike the hand of City skipper Mark Hudson.

But referee Iain Williamson waved away Burnley’s claims and then ignored a pull by Turner on substitute Charlie Austin in the dying minutes.

Burnley manager Eddie Howe was proud of his side’s performance and glad of the point. “I’m delighted with the way we played and the bravery displayed out there,” he said.

I’m delighted with the way we played and the bravery displayed out there

Burnley manager Eddie Howe

“There were a lot of positives and though we are disappointed not to have won, a point is pretty pleasing.”

For Cardiff boss Malky Mackay, it was another frustrating afternoon. “The game is about fine margins. Had we converted any one chance, we would have gone fourth,” he said.

“It was one of those matches when you were just hoping that something goes in off someone’s backside.

“But I’m delighted with a clean sheet and hopefully it’s something we can build on. ”